Male Condoms
Average Failure Rate: 15%
The condom is a thin shield that is worn on the penis. It traps the semen expelled from the penis during intercourse, preventing sperm from entering the vagina. A man must put on a condom while he has an erection but before intercourse. Afterward, he should withdraw immediately to prevent condom leakage. Although condoms can be effective, they sometimes break during intercourse. For this reason it is suggested that condoms be stored in a cool, dry place; oil-based lubricants (such as Vaseline or baby oil) should not be used as they can weaken latex condoms. Even medication for female yeast infection can cause condom failure.
Feds rethink condom efficacy The online fact sheet on condoms by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at www.cdc.gov, used to begin with this statement: "Condoms are effective in preventing HIV and other STDs." The fact sheet was removed from the site in 2002 and was later replaced with one that states, "The surest way to avoid transmission of sexually transmitted diseases is to abstain from sexual intercourse ..." or be in a long-term monogamous relationship with someone whom you know is not infected.
The new fact sheet also omits descriptions of the various condom types, information on which lubricants are safe to use with latex, instructions for how to properly use a condom, and references to anal and oral sex, for which public-health groups recommend condoms. A CDC spokesperson said the new fact sheet is more science-based than its predecessor.
Source: "Condoms: Extra protection," Consumer Reports, February 2005.
Condom Concerns
Condoms, especially the spermicidal variety, increase the risk of urinary tract infections in women. In fact spermicidal condoms have not been shown to be more effective than condoms without spermicide. Some men and women find the latex in condoms irritating due to allergy, and spermicidal condoms can worsen the allergenic properties of the latex. For sensitive individuals, non-spermicidal polyurethane or natural skin condoms may be more acceptable. Natural skin condoms, however, are expensive and do not protect against disease, and polyurethane condoms are more likely to break.
Most men report reduced sensitivity during intercourse, some men find they cannot retain an erection when a condom is used, and condoms may affect the spontaneity of intercourse. When used consistently by married couples, condoms can be very effective, but failure rates are much higher for unmarried couples and teenagers. If a condom is to be effective, the most important rule is to use it every single time. A new one must be worn if intercourse is repeated. More about safer sex. Condoms for Men
